Cost Comparison 2025

IstanbulvsShanghai

Turkey

•

China

Overall

💰

+35.4%

Istanbul is 35.4%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+96.4%

Housing is 96.4% higher

Dining

🍽️

0.0%

Restaurants 0.0% same

Groceries

🛒

+66.7%

Food shopping 66.7% more

Comparing the cost of living between Istanbul, Turkey and Shanghai, China reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Istanbul is more expensive than Shanghai by approximately 35.4%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.

Key Cost Differences

Housing costs in Istanbul are lower than in Shanghai by 49%. A one-bedroom apartment in Istanbul's city center costs around TRY 25,000, while the same in Shanghai is approximately CN¥8,000.

Dining out in Istanbul costs about the same compared to Shanghai. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs TRY 150 in Istanbul versus CN¥30 in Shanghai.

Public transportation in Istanbul is more expensive, with monthly passes at TRY 1,100 compared to CN¥260 in Shanghai.

Purchasing power in Shanghai is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Istanbul.

Grocery shopping in Istanbul is more affordable by approximately 40%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Istanbul can expect to spend approximately TRY 7,060 per month (excluding rent), while in Shanghai, the same lifestyle would cost around CN¥1,980. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about TRY 24,710 monthly in Istanbul versus CN¥6,930 in Shanghai. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.

Detailed Cost Comparison

Item

Istanbul, Turkey

Shanghai, China

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center

TRY 25,000

CN¥8,000

1BR Outside Center

TRY 15,000

CN¥4,500

3BR City Center

TRY 50,000

CN¥18,000

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant

TRY 150

CN¥30

Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant

TRY 700

CN¥200

Cappuccino

TRY 80

CN¥30

Domestic Beer (0.5L)

TRY 100

CN¥10

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)

TRY 35

CN¥15

Bread (500g)

TRY 10

CN¥12

Eggs (12)

TRY 50

CN¥12

Cheese (1kg)

TRY 200

CN¥100

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket

TRY 18

CN¥3

Monthly Pass

TRY 1,100

CN¥260

Taxi Start

TRY 30

CN¥14

Gasoline (1L)

TRY 40

CN¥9

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)

TRY 2,000

CN¥400

Internet (60 Mbps)

TRY 300

CN¥100

Mobile Minute

TRY 2

CN¥0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Istanbul to Shanghai, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Shanghai to Istanbul requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.

Quality of Life Indices

Istanbul

Cost of Living Index48

Rent Index28

Purchasing Power Index40

Shanghai

Cost of Living Index65

Rent Index55

Purchasing Power Index70

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Istanbul more expensive than Shanghai?

Yes, Istanbul is approximately 35.4% more expensive than Shanghai overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

How much salary do I need in Istanbul compared to Shanghai?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.4x of your Shanghai salary when living in Istanbul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Shanghai, you'd need about $67,708 in Istanbul for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Istanbul and Shanghai?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 49%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

Shanghai offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Shanghai provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Istanbul if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Shanghai for better value.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Istanbul vs Shanghai?

In Istanbul, a single person needs approximately TRY 22,060 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about TRY 54,710. In Shanghai, these figures are CN¥6,480 for singles and CN¥16,930 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Istanbul and Shanghai in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.